Government Launches DIIMS for Diaspora
Kenyans living abroad can now access critical government services online following the launch of the Diaspora Integrated Information Management System (DIIMS) on the eCitizen platform.
The new system consolidates essential diaspora services under one centralized digital portal, making it easier for citizens outside Kenya to seek assistance and interact with government agencies remotely.
According to a notice issued by the Consulate General of the Republic of Kenya in Dubai on February 24, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs has officially onboarded core diaspora services onto eCitizen and integrated them with the DIIMS portal.
Services Available on DIIMS
The Diaspora Integrated Information Management System offers several critical services, including:
- Registration of Kenyans living abroad
- Registration of diaspora associations
- Reporting of missing persons
- Reporting of deaths
- Requests for assistance by distressed individuals
- Crisis mapping
This integration aims to create a streamlined digital channel where diaspora issues can be recorded, tracked, and addressed more efficiently.
Addressing Challenges in the Middle East
The rollout of DIIMS is expected to significantly benefit Kenyans working in the Middle East, particularly domestic workers who often face difficult working conditions.
Many Kenyan workers in the region have reported cases of:
- Physical abuse
- Sexual harassment
- Verbal abuse
- Excessive working hours
- Poor living conditions
Through DIIMS, affected individuals can now submit distress calls directly via the online system, triggering intervention from relevant government authorities.
The platform also seeks to resolve long-standing complaints from Kenyans who previously reported delays or lack of response from embassies in handling grievances abroad.
24-Hour Diaspora Response Centre
In addition to DIIMS, the government has launched a 24-hour diaspora response centre to assist Kenyans facing emergencies abroad.
The centre handles urgent cases such as:
- Medical emergencies
- Detention issues
- Lost travel documents
- Workplace crises
Kenyans can reach the response centre through:
- Phone: +254 207 876 000
- WhatsApp: +254 114 757 002
- Email support
This round-the-clock service strengthens Kenya’s emergency response framework for citizens outside the country.
Tackling Human Trafficking and Irregular Migration
The government is also addressing concerns around human trafficking and exploitation linked to the Kafala system in some Middle Eastern countries.
Through the Kazi Majuu program, authorities are facilitating structured and legal employment opportunities for Kenyans in countries such as Germany, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Kingdom.
The initiative aims to:
- Promote safe and regulated labor migration
- Expand opportunities beyond domestic work
- Support skilled professionals seeking international employment
By recognizing and promoting skilled labor, the program seeks to reduce over-reliance on casual and domestic job placements abroad.
Financial Support for Youth Seeking Jobs Abroad
To further support legal migration, the government—through the Youth Enterprise Development Fund and the Uwezo Fund—now offers financial assistance of up to KSh 300,000.
The funds can cover:
- Airfare
- Visa processing fees
- Mandatory training costs
This financial backing is designed to empower young Kenyans who secure verified job opportunities abroad but lack the resources to facilitate travel and documentation.
A Centralised Digital Solution
The launch of the Diaspora Integrated Information Management System marks a major step toward digitizing and centralizing diaspora services.
By integrating these services into eCitizen, the government aims to:
- Improve accountability
- Speed up response times
- Enhance data tracking
- Strengthen protection mechanisms for Kenyans abroad
The move reflects Kenya’s broader push toward digital governance and improved citizen service delivery.
For Kenyans in the diaspora, DIIMS offers a more direct, structured, and accessible way to seek assistance, report emergencies, and remain connected to government services—no matter where they are in the world.